In South Africa, the time to expunge criminal records depends on the type of crime committed. For example, serious crimes such as murder, rape and armed robbery can take up to 10 years before we can expunge them. However, minor crimes such as theft or fraud can only take up to 3 years before they are removed from a person’s record.
It is important for people with a criminal record to know when their records will be expunged because it could change their life. For example, if someone has a criminal record that will be expunged in less than a year then they might not want to apply for jobs that require background checks.
What is the process of expungement in South Africa?
Ex-offenders are often stigmatized by society. It is not uncommon for them to be denied employment, housing and even the right to vote. Expungement is a process that removes criminal records from public access and protects them from being disclosed in the future.
The expungement process starts with an application to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA). The NPA will then investigate the case and decide whether they will grant an expungement. If granted, it will then remove any record of the offence from its records and those of SAPS.
The process can take up to six months and applicants must provide proof that they have completed their sentence, paid all fines and court costs as well as completed community service programmes if applicable.
